International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB) awarding body

What we're all about

The IAB … the professional choice

With over 10,000 members across 60 countries, the IAB is one of the most prestigious not-for-profit organisations for professional bookkeepers in the world.

Regulated by Ofqual, the IAB is both a government-approved and statutory supervisory body. Setting world-class standards, it offers students worldwide the chance to gain the very best financial qualifications – as well as lifelong skills.

Decades of best practice

Founded in 1973, the IAB is both an awarding and professional body. Today, celebrating over 40 years of success, it not only offers a host of regulated  bookkeeping and business qualifications, it supports and regulates professionals on their career path.

With membership attracting students, business owners and accounting professionals alike, the IAB’s sights are on the future – helping members maintain their skills and respected status.

Setting standards

At the forefront of benchmarking, the IAB works with government as well as standard setting bodies to promote the professional integrity of bookkeepers.

Under the UK Money Laundering Regulations 2007, the IAB is a statutory supervisor – ensuring members in practice comply with the law. Alongside this, it also plays a key role in developing national qualifications too.

Promoting new opportunities

Young people and start-up businesses need a helping hand – the chance to gain skills and move ahead. The IAB supports many initiatives to make this happen.

It collaborated with the Financial and Legal Skills Partnership to pave the way for new bookkeeping and payroll qualifications and apprenticeships.

As a key partner in the ‘Get Mentoring’ scheme – led by the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative – thousands of mentors were trained to help new businesses grow.

Small businesses can easily find a bookkeeper through the service provided on the site with listings of qualified bookkeepers across the UK.